Data centers coming to nearby NEPA

Penn’s Northeast (PNE) recently held a panel in Scranton, Pennsylvania, focusing on the projected growth of data centers in Northeastern Pennsylvania (NEPA). John L. Augustine III, PNE’s CEO, indicated that numerous announced and proposed data center projects are clustered in areas such as Archbald, Jessup, and Berwick, leveraging existing high-tension power lines and substations, notably the upgraded Susquehanna-Roseland transmission line. Augustine estimates that about two-thirds of the nearly 30 identified projects will materialize, with Amazon cited as an operator actively exploring sites in Berwick and already operating a permitted facility in Salem Township. Key discussions revolved around the substantial power and water demands of modern, AI-driven data centers. Augustine confirmed that PPL and American Water are assessing utility capacity through power purchase agreements and similar processes to ensure sufficient resources. He underscored that while Pennsylvania law mandates municipalities to permit various developments, proactive zoning is crucial for guiding data center placement, potentially utilizing sites like abandoned coal mines. The economic benefits, such as significant construction employment, were also highlighted, with Amazon's Salem Township project employing 1100 workers over an estimated ten-year build-out period. Stacy Hanrahan, communications specialist for the Susquehanna River Basin Commission (SRBC), provided details on water usage, stating that data centers employing dry cooling technologies can have minimal water footprints, with Amazon's Salem Township facility using less water than an average golf course. She emphasized the SRBC’s rigorous, science-based review of water withdrawal applications, coordinating with agencies like DEP, and enforcing strict permit conditions. The SRBC's Dry Cooling Resolution (No. 2025-03) encourages water-saving technologies, offering incentives such as reduced permitting complexities. The article also acknowledged public apprehension, noting